Singapore’s decision to legalise gambling is expected to significantly boost the number of tourists arrivals beyond the current figure of around 8.5 million people a year.
In his first major policy decision since taking power in August, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has cleared the way for the opening of two casino resorts worth $3 billion.
One casino will be built on Marina Bay near the city centre and one on the resort island of Sentosa. As well as increasing the number of tourists to Singapore, the move will create around 100,000 jobs and overturn the island’s image as a staid and sleepy destination.
“We cannot stand still, the whole region is on the move,” said Lee. “If we don’t change, where will we be in 20 years?”
The casinos, expected to open in 2009, will form the centre of two resorts which will also include theme parks, shopping plazas, convention halls, hotels and museums.
Singapore has come under considerable pressure from other countries in the region. China’s rapid economic growth has eroded the country’s manufacturing base and cities such as Bangkok in Thailand are seen as more exciting destinations for tourists.
Singaporeans already bet heavily in lotteries, on cruise ships and via illegal bookmakers.
